The Bauchi State Police Command has denied allegations of inaction in the investigation of the murder of a 70-year-old, Mama Talatu Joshua in Gobir Village, Kirfi Local Government Area, confirming the arrest of suspects involved in the crime.
This was contained in a statement released by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakil, while responding to a petition filed by Ada-Light Kwaltings, Samuel & Partners, accusing police officers at the Kirfi Division of failing to arrest the suspects, and mishandling the victim’s body.
“We received a petition concerning the murder of Mama Talatu Joshua. The petition alleged inaction on our part, and we are here to set the record straight,” CSP Wakil stated.
According to him, the attack occurred on March 2, 2025, when four individuals, Rilwanu Mani (Chiroman Gobir), Ali Isah (Sarkin Gobir), Ila Amo (Marafan Gobir), and Jamilu, assaulted Mama Talatu, resulting in her death.
On claims in the petition that police officers confirmed the victim’s death, but failed to provide further instructions, Wakil clarified that law -enforcement personnel are not authorized to officially determine the cause of death, as that falls under the purview of medical professionals.
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Refuting allegations of inaction by the police, he confirmed that the suspects were arrested on March 8, 2025, and are currently in custody at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Upon further investigation, the police spokesman said, it was discovered that the attack was linked to an incident on February 28, 2025, when the wife of one of the suspects sought help from a traditional healer, who allegedly blamed Talatu for her illness.
This led the suspects to confront and assault her, resulting in her death.
“We urge all parties involved to refrain from spreading misleading statements, as such actions could undermine the integrity of the investigation, and disrupt the peace in Bauchi State,” CSP Wakil stated.
He assured the public that the police remain committed to handling the case in a professional, and objective manner.
